Fullerton College Launches Historic Drone Study Abroad Program In Sydney Australia

Fullerton College Takes Off with History-Making Drone Technology Study Abroad Experience in Sydney, Australia

The Department of Drone Technology at Fullerton College has announced its first-ever study abroad experience, “DRON 115 - Aerial Imaging and Storytelling,” which will take students on an unforgettable journey to Sydney, Australia. This exciting opportunity is part of the college’s innovative Bachelor of Science degree in drones and autonomous systems, launched in December 2025.

The study abroad program is a result of Fullerton College’s commitment to providing its students with hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications. Professor Jay Seidel leads the drone technology department and has crafted a dynamic curriculum that not only teaches students about drone photography, image capturing, and Australian culture but also prepares them for the workforce.

“The world our students will be working in over the next 10 to 20 years will look much different,” said Dean Kenneth Starkman of the Fullerton College Technology and Engineering Division. “An experience in Australia will provide students with global literacy skills and unique technical understandings, how to implement a project in another country, solve problems across borders, and much more. Leadership development is also a key strategy for our learners, and this opportunity will impact each student for the rest of their lives.”

The study abroad program, which takes place during Wintersession 2026-27, will allow students to operate drones under international aviation regulations, capture cinematic footage in world-class locations, and produce professional-quality films for their portfolios. Students will also have the chance to photograph some of Australia’s scenic landscapes, including beaches and the Blue Mountains.

To prepare students for this experience, Fullerton College has established a dynamic partnership with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) of Australia. This partnership brings more authentic experiences to students, as they will be operating drones under real-world conditions and receiving expert guidance from CASA representatives.

The Bachelor of Science degree in drones and autonomous systems is an innovative addition to Fullerton College’s curriculum, which blends theoretical learning with hands-on practice necessary for the fast-paced workforce. Students pursuing this degree can expect to cultivate a strong foundation of technical skills through flight operations, advanced sensor technologies, autonomous platforms, and more.

One of the key components of the program is the elective course “DRON 115 - Aerial Imaging and Storytelling.” This course will teach students about drone photography, image capturing, and Australian culture. It will also feature presentations by filmmakers and content creators, as well as tours throughout the city.

The study abroad program is open to Fullerton College students who are pursuing the Bachelor of Science degree in drones and autonomous systems. Applications must be submitted by Thursday, September 24, 2026, with the trip taking place from January 6 through January 27, 2027.

Fullerton College’s innovative approach to education has positioned it at the forefront of drone technology education. By providing students with hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications, Fullerton College is setting its graduates up for success in an industry that is transforming the way we capture images, tell stories, and explore our world.

The study abroad program “DRON 115 - Aerial Imaging and Storytelling” is a testament to this commitment and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the lives of Fullerton College students. With its dynamic partnerships with industry experts and hands-on learning experiences, Fullerton College is poised to equip its graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in this rapidly expanding field.

The drone industry continues to grow and evolve, and Fullerton College’s commitment to education will remain at the forefront of innovation. The study abroad program “DRON 115 - Aerial Imaging and Storytelling” offers students an unparalleled opportunity to explore their passion for drone technology while gaining invaluable skills and knowledge that will benefit them throughout their lives.

To learn more about the study abroad experience, students can visit the Fullerton College Study Abroad website. With its unique blend of hands-on learning experiences and global opportunities, Fullerton College is taking a bold step forward in equipping its graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in this rapidly expanding field.